February 29, 2016

An emerging decorating trend for homeowners
in 2016 is white and shades of off-white. But according to Houzz,
even though white goes with anything and everything, it can still be tricky! Be sure to highlight architectural details, use
charming furniture, and add funky accessories.Here are five of our best tips:

2.Lighting.
While it’s true that all white or mostly white rooms will feel lighter, and
airier, they still need light — preferably warm white light in order not to
feel sterile.

3.Sheen.Often overlooked in design choices is
sheen, the reflective quality of a surface. Adding shiny metallics or other
sparkly finishes to a bedroom can help jazz up plain white walls or ceilings. A
little bit goes a long way, though.

4.Layers of off-white.
An easy way to break up an all-white space is to layer in off-white hues. If
you prefer a warmer palette, use light tans. For a cooler palette, incorporate
light grays. For those who want a little more color but want to keep it neutral,
try mixing whites, darker grays and browns. It’s visually interesting and warm,
without going over the top with color.

February 16, 2016

Get and stay happy at
home!According to a variety of
scientific studies, there are colors, scents, and accessories you should have
in your home to improve your chances for complete and utter happiness.Take a look, and see if one, some, or all of
these items are part of your home!

1. Fresh flowers

Research conducted by Rutgers found that being in the presence of flowers
triggers happy emotions and heightens feelings of life satisfaction. Consider a bunch of posies an investment in
your happiness.

2. Sentimental photos

If your
nightstands or end tables are purely functional, you may want to change things
a little. Swap in some family photos ASAP. A study at the University of Portsmouth found that looking at old photos results in
positive feelings and a sense of calm.

3. Vanilla candles

While it may not be your favorite ice cream
flavor, vanilla is apparently a kick-ass mood elevator! AChemical Sensesstudyfound
that vanilla beans are super uplifting. So go ahead and light up a vanilla
scented candle after a stressful day — it'll help you relax.

4. Green or
yellow walls

Out of the entire rainbow, a study fromVrije University in Amsterdamfound
that these two hues evoked the most feelings of happiness. They're bold color
choices, though, for every wall in your home, so maybe try a few statement
walls instead.

5. Furry friends

This one’s a
no-brainer. Research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found
that pets provide meaningful support for owners, helping them with social
isolation and ultimately improving their lives. In other words, having a pet
makes us happy!

6. Floral scents

The next time you pick out a new perfume or
air freshener, try one that’s floral. The scent receptors in your nose are
linked to the part of your brain that determines your emotions. And according
to research from theAssociation for Psychological
Science, floral scents can boost your feelings of
happiness.

7. A journal

While exercise
or therapy can contribute to your current state of mind, writing in a journal
contributes to your future mood.
Research published in Psychological Sciencefound
that re-reading old entries (even if they're short) can make you feel happier.

8. A made bed

Never
underestimate the power of making your bed every morning.According to
a survey by Hunch.com, 71% of people who make their beds consider
themselves happy — while 62% of non-bed-makers say they're unhappy. Wow!
Totally worth spending two extra minutes tucking in your comforter.

9. And remember: Less is more

According
to UCLA's Center of Everyday Lives and
Families, there's a link
between high cortisol (a stress hormone) levels in women who own homes with a
"high density of household objects." In other words, the more stuff
you have, the more stressed out you feel. So cut the clutter for a better chance at a calm and happy life.

February 11, 2016

Valentine’s Day is all about indulging yourself… and we have
a variety of dreamy suggestions for a romantic holiday right in your own home. Some
of these might take some planning, but they’re worth it!

What’s
the most romantic spot in your home? In front of the fire of course! So light
it up and actually relax in front of it! Grab your significant other and enjoy
the warm glow.

Share
a quiet meal with your partner. Whether you cook from scratch or order take out
to eat at home, it doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive, but something
you can enjoy together.

If
you don’t already have one, invest in a good stereo system. Connect it to your
wi-fi/Bluetooth, and you can listen to your most romantic tunes all over the
house! This is a great way to tap into
one of the five senses and really set the tone you’d like for the evening.

Take
a “Spa Day”. Relax in a bubble bath. Give yourself a mani-pedi. Wear your PJs
all day and veg on the couch. Unplug your technology and enjoy the quiet. You don’t have to have a scheduled appointment
at a salon to reap the benefits of a spa day.
Not having to leave the comfort of your own home makes it that much more
relaxing!

Go
to bed early. It’s a fact that we live in an “always-on” world. Pamper yourself
with some extra sleep. Cuddle up with your sweetie, and decompress. But first,
splurge on some new sheets, fluffy blankets, or new sleepwear. Investing in a clean and comfortable bedroom
is a great way to ensure a good night’s sleep, whether you’re celebrating
Valentine’s Day or any other day of the year!